Imagine a dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring, where each creamy bite transports you to sun-drenched Italian landscapes. Our Spring Risotto with Shrimp, Chevre, and Peas is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines the delicate flavors of fresh seafood and tangy cheese with the vibrant sweetness of peas. This recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and satisfying way to impress your family or guests. Ready to dive into a bowl of luxurious goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup chevre cheese
- 1 cup fresh peas
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Warm the chicken broth in a separate saucepan and keep it simmering on low heat. This ensures the broth is hot when added to the risotto.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Add Arborio rice and stir to coat the grains with oil, toasting them lightly for 1-2 minutes until they become slightly translucent.
- Begin adding the hot chicken broth one ladle at a time, stirring constantly. Allow each ladle of broth to be absorbed before adding the next, which helps release the rice's starches and creates a creamy texture.
- When the rice is nearly tender, add the shrimp and fresh peas. Continue cooking and stirring.
- Once the rice is al dente and the shrimp is cooked through, remove from heat and stir in the chevre cheese until melted and incorporated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the risotto rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow it to reach the perfect creamy consistency.
- Plate the risotto immediately, garnishing with additional chevre or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking. This makes the process smoother and more enjoyable, especially when you’re stirring the risotto!
- Keep the Broth Hot: Always keep your chicken broth simmering on low heat. Adding cold broth can slow down the cooking process and affect the risotto's creamy texture.
- Stir Constantly: The key to perfect risotto is to stir it frequently. This helps release the rice's natural starches, resulting in that signature creamy consistency.
- Don’t Rush the Broth Addition: Allow each ladle of broth to absorb fully before adding the next. This patience pays off with a beautifully textured risotto.
- Taste as You Go: Check the seasoning and doneness of the rice as you cook. You want it to be al dente, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Finish with Cheese: Stir in the chevre cheese off the heat for a rich and creamy finish. It not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful tang.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a few extra crumbles of chevre can elevate the dish’s appearance, making it even more inviting.
- Serve Immediately: Risotto is best enjoyed fresh and hot, so plate it up right away for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
